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Top 10 Vehicles Targeted For Catalytic Converter Theft In Florida

Here are the top 10 vehicles targeted for catalytic converter theft in Florida. Throughout the state of Florida there is a new theft epidemic on the rise and that is…

Car Thief tries to start the car with a screwdriver in the ignition. Car thief, car theft
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Here are the top 10 vehicles targeted for catalytic converter theft in Florida. Throughout the state of Florida there is a new theft epidemic on the rise and that is catalytic converters. To be honest, it makes sense as there are nearly 22 million people living in Florida. It shouldn’t come as a surprise since some of the models on this list are the most popular cars in the state, but what are Florida lawmakers doing to help curb this?

There is a new law being proposed in Florida that would make it a third degree felony to buy, possess or sell any stolen catalytic converters. Thieves can take the “cats” (catalytic converter) in about a minute and this bill will head to the House for a vote.

Carfax  released the list of the 10 top vehicles targeted for catalytic converter theft in Florida and all regions of the United States.

What makes catalytic converters a hot target?

Catalytic converters contain metals such as rhodium, palladium, and platinum which can be turned around and sold for thousands of dollars. To put this into perspective, currently (at the time of writing this) rhodium is selling for $4,200.00 and gold is selling for $1913.00

How can you tell if your catalytic converter has been stolen?

If someone does steal your catalytic converter, you’ll know immediately because it will be very loud! The catalytic converter passes air from the engine and out through the muffler. You may also experience darker exhaust and you will might a warning light on the dash telling you something isn’t right.

What can you do to prevent your catalytic converter from theft?

One of the best ways to keep you and your vehicle safe from thieves is to know your surroundings. Remember to park your vehicles in a well lit area especially if you have fleet vehicles for business. You can even install a catalytic converter anti theft device and if you want to take that extra step. Carfax suggests etching you VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the converter itself.

Now that we've given some background on what you can do to prevent your vehicles' catalytic converters from theft, lets get into this list on the top 10 vehicles targeted for catalytic converter theft in Florida.

10. Toyota Tacoma

One of the hottest rucks on the market for consumers at the moment. Be sure to park in a well lit area if you have a new Tacoma.

9. Ford Expedition

These big family vehicles are easy targets for thieves. Make sure you know your surroundings before parking these trucks.

8. Chevrolet Traverse

The first of two Chevy's on this list .. welcome the Traverse. These are becoming more and more popular as a family adventure SUV. If you're taking a Travers eon a road trip make sure to park near cameras or lights in the hotel parking lot.

7. Chevrolet Silverado

If you're parking this truck in your driveway, use a motion sensor camera to help keep it safe. If your truck sounds much louder you'll know if your catalytic converter was stolen.

6. Ford Explorer

One of the most popular SUVs in America and for law enforcement officers. Definitely watch where you park with this one!

5. Ford Econoline

If you own a business or use these vans for fleet, keep your eyes peeled on the jobsite. Fleet vehicles are among the highest targets for thieves.

man sitting inside front seat of a delivery van

Delivery Driver Sitting in Van

4. Kia Soul

The only Kia on the list, but coming in at number four, if you have one of these be sure to check your surroundings!

3. Honda Accord

A very popular sedan in Florida and a daily commuter. Make sure you're parking in your garage if you have one or near a motion camera in your driveway.

2. Mitsubishi Outlander

Up 57 spots from 2021, the Outlander is the second most popular vehicle thieves target when stealing catalytic converters.

1. Ford F Series Trucks

The number one selling truck in Florida tops another chart, but for being poplar for the wrong reason. If you have any F series trucks you'll want to remain on high alert and if you think you've had your catalytic converter stolen, turn the engine over and listen for a change in your exhaust sound.

Originally from the Midwest and moved down to Tampa Bay after college. When Daniel is not working on Beasley Content, you can find him fishing or skateboarding. Daniel enjoys writing about local restaurants across the Tampa Bay area, Florida lottery stories, and concert reviews/photos.